All Saints Sensory Courtyard
WarwickshireAll Saints Sensory Courtyard has opened in Warwickshire with a funding boost of £15,000 from Wooden Spoon Charity. This project, aimed at transforming a previously neglected area into a serene and secure sensory space for students, is set to have a significant impact on the All Saints School community.
The Sensory Courtyard was officially opened by John Burdett of Nuneaton Old Ed’s and Warwickshire RFU, representing the Wooden Spoon charity. This new space is designed to support students in managing their emotions and sensory needs, helping them transition from feelings of restlessness or anxiety—often referred to as the Yellow Zone in the Zones of Regulation—to a calm and focused Green Zone. The courtyard offers students an environment to self-regulate, fostering relaxation, focus, and readiness to engage in learning activities.
Key features of the Sensory Courtyard include sensory circuits, sensory trays with rotating themes like sand play, water play, sorting activities, and a mud kitchen. “Heavy work” tires provide proprioceptive input to aid in focus and organization. Future additions, such as a Montessori busy board with interactive elements like lights, locks, and cogs, will encourage fine motor skill development, problem-solving, and sensory processing abilities.
A unique sensory shed is also planned, equipped with blackout curtains and sensory lighting to offer children a calm retreat when overstimulated. The courtyard will support children’s sensory and emotional growth through a holistic experience, fostering both psychological well-being and cognitive development. It will also serve as a shared community space, including “Stay and Play” sensory sessions and collaborations with Acorn Lodge Care Home to benefit both young students and elderly residents.
Wooden Spoon Charity’s support has made this transformation possible, aligning with its ethos of advocating for equal opportunities for children. The Sensory Courtyard allows All Saints School to create a lasting foundation for lifelong learning, with each student learning to care for and share the space as Courtyard Caretakers. This new resource offers essential support for students’ emotional and sensory needs, building a more inclusive, supportive school environment.
Wooden Spoon is a charitable organisation dedicated to transforming lives through the power of the rugby community. Known for its commitment to helping support children with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland, the charity has funded numerous projects that create opportunities for children and young people. With a track record of impactful, community-driven projects, Wooden Spoon aims to improve lives through physical, educational, and social projects. Through collaborations like this, Wooden Spoon continues its mission to make positive, lasting change in communities.
Support sensory spaces across the UK by donating funds to Wooden Spoon or simply find out more about Sensory Spaces.
